I’ve always been a tote bag guy. My obsession for organization plays a part, but I also really like the function (admitted: I pack with packing cubes). A catch-all is good for guys like me who carry a to-do list, and try to knock out a bunch at a time. Tote bags are the utility player in the lineup, and can take many looks. To help, here are some tote examples that work for dudes:
From top left:
1. Tom Beckbe Carryall Tote: The updated version of #3. It’s a great bag that defines utility, and it has a refined, rugged look that isn’t too Star Trek.
2. Topo Designs Mountain Utility Tote: I absolutely love Topo Designs. Reminds me of the 80’s and 90’s Patagonia feel (lots of color!)…then you get your hands on their stuff, and you realize how well it’s made. I’ve got this one, and Mrs. RCS has the all-black version that she uses for work. Really great buy.
3. Vintage Gokey Tote: For those in the Coggins/Wm. Brown camp.
4. Filson Rugged Twill Zip Top Tote: Hard to argue against these, even with the price points where they are.
5. Frank Clegg Shrunken Leather Tote: Incredible looking tote. A nod to expert American craftsmanship. An heirloom piece that will only appreciate.
6. Mission Mercantile Ice Block Tote: The design of this bag is so cool. The small handles give it a shopping bag feel, but the look keeps it ‘manly’.
7. Gardenheir x Todd Snyder Waxed Cotton Tote Bag: The new version of the discontinued Filson Tin Cloth tote, and the price is just right.
8. Orvis Adventure Tote: The best $40 you’ll spend.
9. Duck Head Waxed Canvas Tote: This bad boy is built like a tank. I brought mine to the dove field, to the office, and to the tailor. Boom.
What did I miss?
Good list! But what about the OG: the LL Bean tote. Maybe not the manliest but everyone’s got one. Good value and sturdy. Great for the beach and the inevitable extra kids stuff when packing for a trip.
I must agree with this.. Specifically the waxed version of the Bean tote is a must have in the lineup. Affordability is unmatched. The only shortcomings would be that it has a soft bottom which can be problematic for air travel and the handles could use leather wraps when things get heavy..
Ditto, though it’s more of a family tote than man tote. One for each kid + the hound. Zip-top is key
Came here to say this.
Great list. I’d add the Frost River Superior Tote to the mix. Built to last generations.
Orvis bag is a steal and you’ll use it way more than you think.
Pool bag
Diaper bag
Booze/ grocery run
Carry on
Since it’s nylon, it’s easy to clean, easy to dry, and won’t stink when you spill baby formula or wine in it.
Picked up a Dandux off of eBay a few years ago and it’s an absolute tank for family vacations and days at the beach.
One I have been eyeing is the tote from Sid Mashburn, a little on the expensive side. But looks awesome, and will last a lifetime.
My only issue with the Filson rugged twill one is that I wish it had D-rings to attach a shoulder strap. I’ve talked to my local leather guys about doing it, I just need to order the D-rings. Would borrow the strap from my Filson small duffel.
Anyone know of a competitor to the Beckbe Canvas Tailgater bag? Love theirs, but can’t make myself pull the trigger on $350 bag for toting my liquor. I have searched online and found some totes that could serve the function, but they aren’t designed for this purpose like the one from Beckbe.
Only thing similar I found was a weekender bag that had slots for liquor and a bartender backpack. The backpack isn’t the form factor I want and the weekender bag was too large because it is also designed to carry clothes at the same time.
Check out Hudson Sutler brand, I think you’ll find what you’re looking for in their Heritage cooler bag or Heritage wine bag, all below $200.
Thanks for the tip!
Maybe look on Etsy?